Royals

Prince William, Duchess Catherine and Prince Harry record good luck message to Rio 2016 athletes

None of the young royals will be attending the Games this year but they have sent Great Britain a special good luck message.
Prince Harry Prince William Duchess Catherine

They may have declined to attend the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, but Duchess Catherine, Prince William and Prince Harry still want to send their warmest regards.

The royal trio have recorded a special video message to the members of Team Great Britain.

Kensington Palace released the video message on their official Twitter account on Thursday.

The footage was to be a special encouragement to sportsmen and women competing, ahead of Friday’s official Opening Ceremony at Maracana Stadium.

In the film, Catherine says she can’t wait to see what the competitors have in story.

And Wills wishes them the best of luck.

In the footage, Harry, Kate and Wills reflect on the acheivements of British athletes at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Images of cheering fans, both young and old, are interspersed with shots of athletes competing and winning.

The royals have always been big sports fans.

And even though they had a ball at the last Olympics, they’ve declined to attend this year.

It also includes many shots of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge celebrating, alongside Prince Harry.

“London 2012 saw this country come alive with a passion for sport. It saw people of all ages and from all walks of life join together to support Team GB,” Prince William says in a voice-over.

His brother Harry continues: “Each member of Team GB will have a unique journey, but they all share the same aim – to deliver the best performance they possibly can.”

Harry is ready to cheer Team GB on!

Then it’s Kate’s turn: “London 2012 showcased the best of British sport, and we are all so excited to see what can be achieved in Rio.”

Prince Harry, Duchess Catherine and Prince William all briefly on camera to wish all those competing the best of luck.

All three young royals are big sports fans, but have decided not to attend the Olympics this year, reportedly over concerns about the deadly Zika virus.

Meanwhile Anne, The Princess Royal is representing her family at the event and on Thursday gathered with GB’s flag bearer, Andy Murray, and team GB athletes at British House in Rio, Brazil.

Posing for photos proved rather hilarious as tennis pro Andy kept accidentally covering Princess Anne’s face.

“We’re sure your racket handling skills are better than your flag bearing ones,” the Royal Family joked alongside a video of the funny moment.

Check out the hilarious moment between Andy and Princess Anne in the player below!

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